One of Philippine basketball’s most recognized coaches, Tim Cone, has decided to leave the team he’s been mentoring since 1989, reports GMA News Online.

Luigi Trillo, assistant coach for the Alaska Aces, confirmed to GMA News Online that Cone "asked to be released" from his contract so that he could "explore more options." Cone still had two years left in his contract.

Alaska team owner Wilfred Steven Uytengsu said as much when he made the announcement in yesterday’s press conference at Corinthian Plaza. "It really caught me by surprise," said Uytengsu, who is also Cone’s longtime friend.

According to InterAKTV, Cone spoke to the team just hours after he announcement. Cone reportedly told them, "I can’t explain it, I can’t explain why, but it just came."

In an Inquirer.net article, Cone revealed that he had discussed his decision with his family. "Maybe it's just a mid-life crisis but honestly, I want to do something different," he said. "I’ve reached my 50s and it seems there’s more out there at this point."

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Cone’s achievement with Alaska is already in the sports history books. He led the team to 13 championships including a Grand Slam in 1996.

Alaska Aces senior assistant coach Joel Banal will take over from Cone.